WO2007120047A2 - Système de préparation d'une boisson apte à la consommation, et support amovible pour un système de ce type - Google Patents

Système de préparation d'une boisson apte à la consommation, et support amovible pour un système de ce type Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2007120047A2
WO2007120047A2 PCT/NL2007/050164 NL2007050164W WO2007120047A2 WO 2007120047 A2 WO2007120047 A2 WO 2007120047A2 NL 2007050164 W NL2007050164 W NL 2007050164W WO 2007120047 A2 WO2007120047 A2 WO 2007120047A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
fluid
mixing chamber
holder
storage space
restriction
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/NL2007/050164
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2007120047A3 (fr
Inventor
Hendrik Cornelis Koeling
Gerbrand Kristiaan De Graaff
Gustaaf Frans Brouwer
Original Assignee
Sara Lee/De N.V.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Sara Lee/De N.V. filed Critical Sara Lee/De N.V.
Priority to BRPI0710621-1A priority Critical patent/BRPI0710621A2/pt
Priority to EP07747388A priority patent/EP2012628A2/fr
Priority to US12/297,629 priority patent/US20110305807A1/en
Publication of WO2007120047A2 publication Critical patent/WO2007120047A2/fr
Publication of WO2007120047A3 publication Critical patent/WO2007120047A3/fr

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
    • A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
    • A47J31/40—Beverage-making apparatus with dispensing means for adding a measured quantity of ingredients, e.g. coffee, water, sugar, cocoa, milk, tea
    • A47J31/41—Beverage-making apparatus with dispensing means for adding a measured quantity of ingredients, e.g. coffee, water, sugar, cocoa, milk, tea of liquid ingredients
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
    • A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
    • A47J31/40—Beverage-making apparatus with dispensing means for adding a measured quantity of ingredients, e.g. coffee, water, sugar, cocoa, milk, tea
    • A47J31/407—Beverage-making apparatus with dispensing means for adding a measured quantity of ingredients, e.g. coffee, water, sugar, cocoa, milk, tea with ingredient-containing cartridges; Cartridge-perforating means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/0015—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being prepared by mixing at least two liquid components
    • B67D1/0021—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being prepared by mixing at least two liquid components the components being mixed at the time of dispensing, i.e. post-mix dispensers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/0042—Details of specific parts of the dispensers
    • B67D1/0043—Mixing devices for liquids
    • B67D1/0044—Mixing devices for liquids for mixing inside the dispensing nozzle
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/0895—Heating arrangements
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/0801—Details of beverage containers, e.g. casks, kegs

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a system for preparing a predetermined amount of beverage suitable for consumption, provided with an exchangeable holder and an apparatus provided with a fluid dispensing device which is detachably connected to the holder for dispensing at least an amount of at least a first fluid, such as a liquid and/or a gas, in particular such as water and/or steam, under pressure to the exchangeable holder, while the exchangeable holder is provided with at least one storage space which is filled with a second fluid, such as a concentrate.
  • a first fluid such as a liquid and/or a gas, in particular such as water and/or steam
  • the invention further relates to an exchangeable holder designed to be connected to an apparatus provided with a fluid dispensing device for dispensing at least a first fluid, such as a gas and/or liquid, under pressure, to the exchangeable holder for preparing a beverage suitable for consumption, the exchangeable holder being provided with at least one storage space filled with a second fluid, such as a concentrate.
  • the invention further relates to a method for preparing a beverage suitable for consumption.
  • the apparatus is provided with, for instance, a needle which, in use, is pierced through a wall of the storage space for supplying the first fluid to the storage space.
  • the first fluid and the second fluid mix together so that the beverage suitable for consumption is obtained which, thereupon, can flow from the apparatus to be consumed/for consumption.
  • a drawback of the known system is that the strength of the amount of beverage that is dispensed can vary in an uncontrolled manner. The fact is that if, at the start of the preparation of the beverage, the storage space still comprises relatively much of the second fluid, the beverage leaving the exchangeable holder will comprises a relatively high concentration of the second fluid and a relatively low concentration of the first fluid. By contrast, at the end of the preparation cycle, the beverage that flows from the holder will comprise a relatively low concentration of the second fluid and are relatively high concentration of the first fluid. Further, with the known system, it is not possible to vary the properties of the beverage in a user-friendly manner, other than by varying the type of first fluid, the type of second fluid and/or the amount of the first fluid or the second fluid. The object of the invention is to provide a system with which, if desired, the above-mentioned drawbacks can be prevented and, furthermore, other advantages can be realized.
  • the system according to the invention is characterized in that the holder is further provided with at least a first mixing chamber, at least one outflow opening which is in fluid communication with the first mixing chamber for dispensing the beverage from the first mixing chamber, at least one fluid communication between the storage space and the first mixing chamber for dispensing the second fluid to the first mixing chamber and at least one inlet opening which is detachably connected to an outlet opening of the fluid dispensing device for supplying the first fluid to the first mixing chamber, the system further being provided with a dosing device designed for supplying the second fluid in a dosed manner from the storage space to the first mixing chamber by supplying a third fluid, such as a gas or a liquid, in a controlled manner, under pressure, to the second fluid in the storage space (so that the third fluid applies a pressure and/or force to the second fluid), while the fluid dispensing device is designed for supplying the first fluid, under pressure to the first mixing chamber, so that in the first mixing chamber the first fluid and the second fluid mix together for obtaining the beverage
  • Mixing can also be understood to mean, for instance, that the second fluid dissolves in the first fluid or that the second fluid is diluted by the first fluid.
  • the second fluid is dispensed in a dosed manner from the storage space to the first mixing chamber, the concentration of the second fluid in the beverage leaving the first mixing chamber can be accurately regulated.
  • the fact is that the second fluid is dispensed to the first mixing chamber in a dosed manner.
  • the first fluid too can be dispensed in a dosed manner by the fluid dispensing device to the first mixing chamber, so that, consequently, the properties of the beverage formed by mixing the first fluid and the second fluid in the first mixing chamber can be well determined.
  • the dosing device is a controllable, active dosing device for supplying the second fluid to the first mixing chamber, through application of an increased pressure or force to the second fluid.
  • Supplying the second fluid to the first mixing chamber can then be regulated at will.
  • the third fluid will apply a pressure and/or force to the second fluid.
  • the third fluid will be forced via the fluid communication to the first mixing chamber.
  • the third fluid will effectively urge the second fluid from the storage space to the first mixing space.
  • the second fluid is pressed or urged from the storage space by the third fluid.
  • the system is further provided with a control device for controlling the dosing device and the fluid dispensing device.
  • the dosing device and the fluid dispensing device can, for instance, be controlled independently of each other by the control device.
  • the system is designed such that the fluid dispensing device and the dosing device can supply the first fluid and the second fluid, respectively, to the first mixing chamber, independently of each other.
  • the third fluid can comprise, for instance, a gas and/or liquid.
  • the storage space can be blown out well. The gas will then remain in the storage space above the second fluid so that through supply of more gas to the storage space, the second fluid is forced from the storage space. If, after use, the holder is removed from the system, the gas can, if necessary, can escape from the holder in a simple manner.
  • the third fluid can, as stated, also be a liquid. If, for instance the second fluid is also a liquid and, for instance, the specific weight of the liquid of the third fluid is lower than that of the second fluid, the third fluid, when supplied above the second fluid to the storage space, can effectively urge the second fluid in downward direction from the storage space, to the first mixing chamber. It may also be so that the second and third fluids have the property that they do not mix well. In the storage space, the third fluid will, as a rule, remain above the second fluid. It may also happen that apart from the second fluid, the third fluid enters into the first mixing chamber too, which is not a problem when the third fluid is, for instance, a gas or a liquid that can be incorporated in the beverage.
  • the second fluid and the third fluid are such that the third fluid can urge the second fluid from the (respective) storage space.
  • the system can be provided with a needle which, in use, is pierced through a wall of the holder, more particularly through a wall of the storage space or through a wall of the holder at a position below which there is a space which is in fluid communication with the storage space, for supplying the third fluid to the second fluid in de storage space.
  • Piercing with such a needle is reliable and can be controlled in a simple and reliable manner.
  • the needle can cooperate with an at least locally weakened area of a wall of the storage space for, in use, piercing the needle through this area.
  • a hollow needle can be used through which the third fluid can flow.
  • the needle can also be encapsulated by a sealing tube or the like in order to realize a sealing between the needle and the wall through which the needle has been pierced.
  • the system is further provided with a restriction, included in a fluid flow path which extends, via the outlet opening of the fluid dispensing device, the inlet opening of the holder and the first mixing chamber, from the fluid dispensing device to the outflow opening.
  • a restriction included in a fluid flow path which extends, via the outlet opening of the fluid dispensing device, the inlet opening of the holder and the first mixing chamber, from the fluid dispensing device to the outflow opening.
  • the system is further provided with a restriction which is included in a fluid flow path which extends, via the outflow opening and the inlet opening, from the fluid dispensing device to the first mixing chamber.
  • the restriction is designed such that, in use, with the restriction, a jet of the first fluid is generated which spouts into the first mixing chamber. As a result, the first and the second fluid can mix together well in the first chamber.
  • the system is further provided with at least one air inlet opening for supplying air to the first mixing chamber so that, in use, air is whipped into the beverage for obtaining a beverage with a fine bubble froth layer.
  • the air inlet opening forms part of the holder.
  • a size of the air inlet opening may be determined in advance in order to determine, per exchangeable holder, how much air is whipped into the beverage.
  • the size of the air inlet opening can be determined. If the second fluid is, for instance, a coffee concentrate and the first fluid is, for instance, water, while it is intended that coffee with a small fine bubble froth layer is prepared, the size of the air inlet opening can be selected to be relatively small. If by contrast, the exchangeable holder is filled with a second fluid in the form of for instance a milk concentrate, while the first fluid is, once more, water, while it is intended that the beverage consist of frothed milk, the air inlet opening can be relatively large. As, in this example, the air inlet opening forms part of the exchangeable holder, the consumer needs not set anything. All this can be optimized in advance by the manufacturer.
  • the restriction forms part of the holder.
  • the size of the restriction can be determined in advance. If the restriction is for instance relatively small, a relatively strong jet of, for instance, water can be generated. Such a relatively strong jet may be desired when the second fluid comprises, for instance, of concentrate with a high viscosity.
  • the concentrate will dissolve well in the first fluid or be well diluted with the first fluid.
  • the exchangeable holder is provided with a plurality of storage spaces, separated from each other, which are each filled with a second fluid.
  • a first storage space can be filled with a coffee concentrate while a second storage space is filled with a milk concentrate.
  • coffee with milk can be prepared when the first fluid comprises, for instance, water.
  • the dosing device is designed for supplying the second fluids in a dosed manner from the storage spaces to the first mixing chamber through supply of the third fluid, in a controllable manner, under pressure, to the second fluids in the storage spaces.
  • the dosing device is designed for supplying the third fluid to the second fluids in the storage spaces independently, per storage space.
  • the dosing device is, in fact, provided with a plurality of dosing devices for dispensing, with different dosing devices, the second fluids in a dosed manner to the first mixing chamber, from mutually different storage spaces.
  • a coffee concentrate can be supplied to the first mixing chamber while, the fluid dispensing device can supply the liquid in the form of, for instance, hot water to the first mixing chamber for preparing coffee.
  • milk concentrate is supplied in a dosed manner to the first mixing chamber while, also, the hot water is supplied to the first mixing chamber.
  • an air inlet opening is present, air can be whipped in so that frothed milk is obtained.
  • This frothed milk is then dispensed from the exchangeable holder.
  • a good cappuccino can be prepared with a white froth layer formed by hot milk.
  • the system more in particular the holder, can also be provided with an adjustable air inlet opening.
  • the air inlet opening can be opened for obtaining frothed milk as discussed hereinabove.
  • the air inlet opening can be closed for obtaining coffee comprising virtually no froth.
  • the coffee and the frothed milk can then be combined as discussed hereinabove for obtaining a cappuccino as described hereinabove.
  • a seal is present which will open when the pressure applied by one of the fluids to the seal increases to above a particular value.
  • at least a number of the seals will open at mutually different pressures.
  • at least one seal will open when the pressure in the respective storage space rises to above a particular value belonging to the respective seal.
  • At least a number of other seals will then not open yet. The result is that at the at least one seal that opens first, the second fluid can flow away to the mixing chamber so that in the first mixing chamber, under the influence of the liquid, a beverage can be generated.
  • first, for instance coffee can be formed and then milk, in particular frothed milk, while, first, the coffee can flow from the first mixing chamber into a container, such as a cup, whereupon the frothed milk can flow from the first mixing chamber into the cup so that at least the froth of the milk will float on the coffee resulting in the formation of an attractive cappuccino with white froth.
  • the system is designed for dispensing fluids at mutually different flow rates and/or during mutually different periods, with at least two different dosing devices from at least two storage spaces.
  • the dosing devices can, once more, operate or be controlled independently of the fluid dispensing device.
  • the first fluid and the second fluids can be controllably dispensed, at mutually different flow rates and/or within mutually different periods of time.
  • the at least one air inlet can form part of the apparatus or the holder.
  • the at least one air inlet is provided with an adjustable valve for adjusting the size of the air flow.
  • the valve can be regulated both by the apparatus and by the consumer (manually).
  • the valve can be set depending on, for instance, the type of beverage that is to be prepared.
  • the exchangeable holder can be provided with a code, readable by the apparatus, so that the apparatus knows which type of beverage is to be prepared and thus, the apparatus can set, for instance, the adjustable valve and/or the fluid dispensing device for determining, for instance, the pressure, the amount and the temperature of the liquid which is supplied to the exchangeable holder.
  • the holder according to the invention is characterized in that the holder is further provided with at least a first mixing chamber, at least one outflow opening which is in fluid communication with the first mixing chamber for dispensing the beverage from the first mixing chamber, at least one fluid communication between the storage space and the first mixing chamber for dispensing the first fluid to the first mixing chamber and at least one inlet opening which, in use, is detachably connected to an outflow opening of the fluid dispensing device for supplying the second fluid to the first mixing chamber, while the storage space forms part, at least partly, of a dosing device, while the holder is designed such that, in use, a third fluid can be supplied, with the apparatus, in a controllable manner, under pressure, to the second fluid in the storage space (so that the third fluid applies a pressure and/or force to the second fluid) for dispensing the second fluid in a dosed manner from the storage space to the first mixing chamber while, in use, the first fluid is also supplied under pressure to the first mixing chamber, so that the second fluid and the first
  • the holder is provided with means cooperating with the apparatus for supplying, in use, the third fluid with the apparatus to the second fluid in the storage space
  • the means cooperating with the apparatus comprise, for instance, at least one locally weakened area of a wall of the storage space for piercing, in use, this area with a needle of the dosing device, for supplying the third fluid to the second fluid in the storage space.
  • the means cooperating with the apparatus can comprise, for instance, at least one locally weakened area of a wall of the storage space for, during use piercing a needle of the dosing device through this area, for supplying the third fluid to the second fluid in the storage space.
  • a valve in a wall of the storage space which valve cooperates with a supply duct of the dosing device connectable to the valve, for supplying the third fluid to the second fluid in the storage space.
  • the walls of the storage spaces can be at least partly rigid and/or at least partly flexible. It is preferred that flexible parts of the walls are not stretchable, so that the storage spaces for supply of the third fluid are not inflated.
  • the storage space upon supply of the third fluid, the storage space can bulge somewhat, while upon further supply, the second fluid is forced from the storage space as discussed hereinabove.
  • Fig. Ia shows a first embodiment of a system according to the invention provided with a holder according to the invention
  • Fig. Ib shows the system according to Figure Ia in operational condition
  • Fig. Ic shows the system according to Fig. Ia in operational condition
  • Fig. 2a shows a cross-section of a second embodiment of a system according to the invention provided with a holder according to the invention
  • Fig. 2b shows a partly cutaway side view of the holder of Fig. 2a
  • Fig.2c shows a cross-section of the holder according to Fig. 2a;
  • Fig. 3a shows a third embodiment of a system according to the invention provided with a holder according to the invention
  • Fig. 3b shows a cross-section of a part of the holder according to Fig. 3a
  • Fig 4a shows a fourth embodiment of a system according to the invention
  • Fig. 4b shows a cross-section of the storage space of the holder according to Fig. 4a;
  • Fig. 5a shows a fifth embodiment of a system according to the invention
  • Fig. 5b shows a cross-section of the fluid communication of the holder according to Fig. 5a;
  • Fig. 6a shows a sixth embodiment of a system according to the invention
  • Fig. 6b shows a cross-section of the fluid communication of the holder according to Fig. 6a;
  • Fig. 7 shows a seventh embodiment of a system according to the invention.
  • reference numeral 1 indicates a system for preparing a predetermined amount of beverage suitable for consumption.
  • the system (see Fig. Ia) is provided with an exchangeable holder 2 and an apparatus 4 provided with, inter alia, a fluid dispensing device 6 designed for dispensing, under pressure, at least one amount of at least a first fluid, such as a liquid and/or a gas, more particularly such as water and/or steam.
  • a first fluid such as a liquid and/or a gas, more particularly such as water and/or steam.
  • the fluid dispensing device dispenses water.
  • the exchangeable holder 2 is provided with at least one storage space 8 which is filled with a second fluid such as a beverage, a concentrate or a powder.
  • the storage space is formed by a rigid wall. This is, however, not necessary.
  • a concentrate for preparing coffee is concerned.
  • the holder 2 is further provided with at least a first mixing chamber 10 an at least one outflow opening 12 which is in fluid communication with the first mixing chamber 10.
  • the holder is further provided with a fluid communication 14 between the storage space 8 and the first mixing chamber 10.
  • the holder is further provided with at least one inlet opening 16 which is detachably connected to an outflow opening 18 of the fluid dispensing device 6. In Fig. Ia, the inlet opening 16 has not yet been connected to the outlet opening 18.
  • the system is farther provided with a restriction 20 which is included in a fluid flow path 21 which extends, via the outlet opening 18 of the fluid dispensing device 6, the inlet opening 16 and the first mixing chamber 10, from the fluid dispensing device 6 to the outflow opening 12.
  • the restriction 20 is included in a fluid flow path 22 which extends, via the outflow opening 18 of the fluid dispensing device 6 and the inlet opening 16 of the exchangeable holder 2, from the fluid dispensing device to the first mixing chamber 10.
  • the storage space 8 forms at least a part of a dosing device as will be explained in further detail hereinbelow.
  • this dosing device 24 is further provided with a needle 28 which, in use, is pierced through a wall of the storage space for supplying a third fluid to the second fluid in the storage space for dispensing the second fluid to the first mixing chamber in a dosed manner.
  • the dosing device 24 is further provided with a fluid dispensing unit 32 which is connected to the needle 28.
  • the fluid dispensing unit 32 and the needle 28 form part of the apparatus 4.
  • the fluid dispensing device 32 is, in this example at least via the needle 28, detachably connectable to the holder 2.
  • the apparatus 4 is further provided with a control device 34 for controlling the fluid dispensing device 6 and the fluid dispensing unit 32.
  • the control device 34 For controlling the fluid dispensing device 6 and the fluid dispensing unit 32, the control device 34 generates control signals s which are supplied to the fluid dispensing device 6 and the fluid dispensing unit 32.
  • the apparatus described heretofore works as follows. For the purpose of preparing a predetermined amount of beverage suitable for consumption, the exchangeable holder 2 is placed in the apparatus. Here, the storage space 8 of the exchangeable holder is placed under the needle 28. Also, as shown in Fig. Ib, the outflow opening 18 is connected to the inlet opening 16. The apparatus is now ready for use.
  • the control device By pushing, for instance, a button 36 of the control device 34, the control device provides for the fluid dispensing unit 32 to start moving the needle 28 in the direction of the arrow Pa.
  • the result hereof is that the needle 28 is pierced through a wall of the storage space 8 and the third fluid is supplied under pressure to the second fluid in the storage space.
  • the third fluid will apply a pressure and/or force to the second fluid. In this example, this results in the increase of the pressure in the storage space.
  • the second fluid is thus pressurized with the pressure of the third fluid.
  • the third fluid can consist of, for instance, air, nitrogen, oxygen, CO2, helium and the like. It is also conceivable that the third fluid consists of a liquid that does not mix with the second fluid.
  • the fluid communication 14 can then be further provided with, for instance, a seal 38, in the form of, for instance, a breakable skin 38 which, as a result of the increase of the pressure in the storage space 8 caused by the supply of the third fluid, tears open.
  • a seal 38 in the form of, for instance, a breakable skin 38 which, as a result of the increase of the pressure in the storage space 8 caused by the supply of the third fluid, tears open.
  • the coffee concentrate will flow in a dosed manner form the storage space 8 via the fluid communication 14 to the first mixing chamber 10.
  • the control device 34 provides for the fluid dispensing device 6 to be activated. This results in that the fluid dispensing device 6 starts dispensing the first fluid under pressure, in this example water.
  • this water is hot water with a temperature of, for instance, 80 - 98°C. This hot water flows via the liquid flow path to the restriction 20.
  • the first mixing chamber 10 comprises a first entrance opening 23 and a second entrance opening 23' placed at a distance from the first entrance opening, while, in use, the first fluid enters the first mixing chamber via the first entrance opening and the second fluid enters the first mixing chamber via the second entrance opening.
  • the inlet opening 16 is in fluid communication with the first entrance opening 23.
  • the fluid communication 14 terminates in the second entrance opening 23'.
  • the holder 2 comprises a first supply location 27 and a second supply location 27' located at a distance from the first supply location, while, in use, the first fluid is supplied to the holder 2 at the first supply location and the third fluid is supplied to the holder at the second supply location.
  • the inlet opening 16 is located at the first supply location 27.
  • the second supply location 27' is in fluid communication (or can be brought in fluid communication) with the storage space 8.
  • the hot water will start mixing well with the concentrate.
  • the flow rate at which the concentrate is supplied to the mixing chamber is regulated by the control device 34 through control of the fluid dispensing unit 32.
  • the flow rate at which the hot water is supplied to the first mixing chamber is also regulated by the control device through control of the fluid dispensing device.
  • the concentrate will mix weE with the hot water so that the beverage is formed. This beverage can then leave the outflow opening 12 and be captured in, for instance, a mug 40.
  • both the dosing of the concentrate over time and the dosing of the hot water over time can be regulated well, it can be ensured that the concentration of the amount of concentrate in the beverage can be accurately determined. Furthermore, it can be ensured that the beverage which, during its preparation, leaves the outflow opening 12 is of constant quality, i.e., the concentration of the concentrate in the beverage that is dispensed can be kept constant during dispensing, if desired.
  • the fact is that the flow rate of the water and the flow rate of the concentrate supplied to the first mixing chamber 10 can each, if desired, be controlled independently of each other.
  • the system is designed such that the fluid dispensing device and the dosing device can, independently of each other, supply the first fluid and the second fluid, respectively, to the first mixing chamber.
  • This entails that the size of the flow rate of the first fluid and the period during which the first fluid is dispensed, are independent (in this example through control of the control device) of the size of the flow rate of the second fluid and the period during which the second flow rate is dispensed.
  • the dosing device concerns a controllable and active dosing device for supplying the second fluid to the first mixing chamber through application of an increased pressure or force to the second fluid.
  • an active dosing device is understood to means that the second fluid flows through the fluid communication from the storage space to the first mixing chamber as a result of an applied excess pressure or force on the side of the storage space.
  • the air inlet opening 42 ensures the supply of air to the first mixing chamber so that, in use, air is whipped into the beverage for obtaining a beverage with a fine bubble froth layer. Thus, a cafe creme can be obtained.
  • the air inlet opening 42 is, in this example downstream of the restriction 20, in fluid communication with the first mixing chamber 10. In this example, the air inlet opening 42 terminates via a fluid communication 44 into the fluid flow path 22. In each example it therefore holds that the air inlet opening and the restriction 20 each form part of the apparatus 4.
  • the control device 34 stops the fluid dispensing device 6.
  • the control device 34 also ensures that the third fluid is no longer supplied to the second fluid in the storage space and that the needle 28 is withdrawn from the respective wall of the storage space, i.e. in a direction opposite the direction of the arrow Pa.
  • the control device ensures that the dispensing of the second fluid to the first mixing chamber is stopped and that after that, the supply of the first fluid (in this example, water) is stopped.
  • the risk of the second fluid contaminating, for instance, the restriction 20 is reduced.
  • Fig. Ic shows a situation when the needle 28 is pierced through a wall of the storage space 8 and the third fluid is supplied under pressure to the second fluid in the storage space.
  • the situation shown occurs at the moment when the control device 34 will stop the supply of hot water to the first mixing chamber, will no longer effect the supply of the third fluid to the second fluid in the storage space, and will effect the retraction of the needle 28 from the respective wall of the storage space so that, thereupon, the holder can be taken from the apparatus again.
  • the new exchangeable holder can be provided with an entirely different type of second fluid such as, for instance, a milk concentrate.
  • milk is prepared in a manner comparable to that as described for the preparation of coffee based on coffee concentrate, in the prepared milk, no trace will be found of the previously prepared type of beverage.
  • the first mixing chamber forms part of the exchangeable holder and when a new exchangeable holder is placed in the apparatus, also, an entirely new and, hence, clean first mixing chamber is placed in the holder. Therefore, contamination cannot be involved.
  • the restriction 20 forms part of the exchangeable holder 2.
  • the air inlet 42 forms part of the exchangeable holder 2.
  • the air inlet opening is in fluid communication with the first mixing chamber downstream of the restriction.
  • the first mixing chamber was provided with an inlet opening through which extended the fluid flow path 22 to the first mixing chamber.
  • this inlet opening was formed by the inlet opening 16 of the holder as such.
  • Fig. 2b it is shown that the inlet opening 16 of the holder does not form the inlet opening of the first mixing chamber 10.
  • the restriction 20 is included downstream of the inlet opening 16.
  • the exchangeable holder is provided, downstream of the restriction 20 with an elongated channel 46 in which, downstream of the restriction 20, first, the air inlet 42 terminates and, then, the fluid communication 14 of the storage space 8 terminates.
  • the actual first mixing chamber 10 is in fact downstream of the restriction in the channel 46.
  • the holder Before being used, the holder can be provided, as shown in Fig. 2b, with a closure 17 which seals off the inlet opening 16, which closure may, however, be removed. Such a closure can, for instance, be a removable seal 17.
  • the holder is also provided with a closure sealing off the outflow opening 12, which closure, however, can also be removed. In this example, this closure too is provided with a removable seal 13. These removable seals 13, 17 are removed by a user.
  • the exchangeable holder is placed in the apparatus, as shown in Fig. 2a.
  • the inlet opening 16 is connected to the outflow opening 18 of the fluid dispensing device 6 (in Fig. 2a, this connection has not been realized yet). Also, as shown in Fig.
  • the storage space 8 will, once more, be placed under the needle 28. Once more, a user pushes the button 36 for starting the preparation of the beverage. Then, the control device 34 provides for the fluid dispensing unit 32 to start moving the needle 28 in the direction of the arrow Pa, while the needle 28 is pierced through a wall of the storage space 8, and for the third fluid to be supplied under pressure to the second fluid in the storage space.
  • the storage space 8 and the needle 28, combined form part of a dosing device.
  • the pressure in the storage space 8 will increase. As a result, the breakable skin 38 will tear whereupon, upon further supply of the third fluid, the coffee concentrate will be supplied to the first mixing chamber 10 in a dosed manner.
  • the control device 34 also ensures that the fluid dispensing device 6 is started. This will thus start dispensing hot water under pressure. This may be, for instance, at the moment the fluid dispensing device is still activated or some time later, so that the first mixing chamber is first filled with only concentrate, and thereafter also with the hot water.
  • the hot water flows via the outflow opening 18 of the apparatus 4 to the holder 2.
  • the hot water is supplied under pressure via the inlet opening 16 to the holder 2.
  • the hot water thus flows along the fluid flow path 22 in the direction of the restriction 20.
  • a jet is formed of the hot water. This jet of hot water spouts in the direction of an inside wall 48 of the mixing chamber 10.
  • control device 34 stops the fluid dispensing device, and the control device 34 will also provide that the third fluid is no longer supplied to the second fluid in the storage space and that the needle be withdrawn from the respective wall of the storage space so that the used holder can be removed from the apparatus.
  • the size of the air inlet opening 42 can be completely geared to the type of beverage that is to be prepared. If, in the apparatus, a different holder is placed, with which a different sort of beverage can, for instance, coffee is to be prepared, the air inlet, Le. the size of the air inlet, can be accordingly adjusted. For preparing a frothed milk based on a milk concentrate, for instance the size of the air inlet 42 can be greater than when coffee extract is to be prepared. For preparing other beverages with which whipping-in air is not desired, the air inlet 42 can be omitted. It is also possible that the air inlet 42 be provided with an adjustable valve 46 that may be adjusted by a user for determining the amount of air that is to be whipped into the beverage.
  • the air inlet 42 can be provided with an adjustable valve 50, schematically represented in the drawing.
  • the exchangeable holder can be provided with, for instance, a readable code in the form of, for instance, a bar code or a code stored in a responder known per se.
  • the apparatus is provided with a code reading unit 52 which is connected to the control device 34 by means of a signal wire 54. Via the code reading unit 52, the control device 34 reads out a code which indicates, for instance, in what manner the valve 50 is to be set. This code may depend on the type of second fluid stored in the holder 2.
  • the code may ensure that the valve is opened further than when a coffee concentrate is present.
  • the apparatus may be designed to also adjust an adjustable valve 50 of the air inlet 42 when this forms part of the holder, as is the case in Fig.2a. Something similar can therefore in general be used.
  • the fluid dispensing device can also, at will, dispense different sorts of first fluids, such as steam or water. This choice may be determined by the readable code. If the holder is filled with a concentrate, for instance hot water can be dispensed by the fluid dispensing device.
  • the code of the holder may provide for the fluid dispensing device to dispense steam so that the milk in the first chamber is mixed with the steam for obtaining hot milk.
  • the system according to Fig. 3a corresponds, at least substantially, to the system according to Fig.2a.
  • the difference resides in the form of the first mixing chamber.
  • a channel 46 is provided which extends from., for instance, the inlet opening 16 to the outflow opening 12.
  • this channel 46 which forms part of the earlier mentioned fluid flow path 22, terminates, via the fluid communication 44, the air inlet opening 42.
  • the fluid communication 14 terminates into this channel 46.
  • a first mixing chamber 10 Downstream of the position 56 where the fluid communication 14 terminates into the channel 46, a first mixing chamber 10 is in fact formed in this channel.
  • a jet impact element 58 is included in the first mixing chamber 10 (see Figs. 3a and 3b).
  • the restriction 20 is directed with respect to the jet impact element 58 such that, in use, the jet generated by the restriction 20 impacts on the jet impact element.
  • the liquid is atomized.
  • the concentrate in the dosing device 24 is supplied in a dosed manner to the first mixing chamber 10.
  • the hot water and the extract are mixed together well.
  • the jet impact on the jet impact element the jet is, furthermore, atomized and air can be whipped in well.
  • the thus formed beverage with whipped-in air leaves the first mixing chamber 10 via the outflow opening 12.
  • the beverage can flow around the jet impact element towards the outflow opening 12.
  • the further operation of the apparatus is comparable to what is described on the basis of the preceding figures.
  • a fourth embodiment of a system according to the invention is described.
  • the holder substantially corresponds to what is described on the basis of Fig. 1.
  • the exchangeable holder is provided with a plurality of storage spaces 8a and 8b, in this example two, separated from each other.
  • this is achieved in that, as shown in Fig.4a, the storage space 8a is separated from the storage space 8b by means of a partition wall 60.
  • the storage space 8a, 8b thus comprises a circumferential outer wall 62 (see Fig. 4b) which encloses a space which is divided into two parts with the aid of the inside wall 60 (see Fig. 4b).
  • the storage spaces 8a and 8b form at least a part of the dosing device 24.
  • This dosing device 24 is further provided with a needle 28a which, in use, is pierced through a wall of the storage space 8a for supplying the third fluid to the second fluid in the storage space 8a for dispensing the second fluid to the first mixing chamber in a dosed manner.
  • the needle 28a is pierced through the wall of the storage space 8a at the second supply location 27'a.
  • the dosing device 24 is further provided with a needle 28b which, in use, is pierced through a wall of the storage space 8b for supplying the third fluid to the second fluid in the storage space 8b for dispensing the second field in a dosed manner to the first mixing chamber.
  • the needle 28b is pierced through the wall of the storage space 8b at the second supply location 27'b.
  • the needles 28a and 28b are connected to a fluid dispensing unit 32.
  • This fluid dispensing unit can be a mutually dependent fluid dispensing unit for the needles 28a and 28b, but can also be an independent fluid dispensing unit for the needles 28a and28b.
  • the first storage space 8a terminates, via a first fluid communication 14a, into the first mixing chamber 10.
  • the second storage space 8b terminates, via a fluid communication 14a, in the first mixing chamber 10.
  • the second storage space 8b terminates, via a second fluid communication 14b, into the first mixing chamber 10.
  • the fluid communication 14a comprises a through-flow opening 64a while the fluid communication 14b comprises a through-flow opening 64b (see Fig. 4a).
  • the through-flow opening 64a forms the second entrance opening 23a' while the through-flow opening 64b forms the second entrance opening 23b'.
  • the inlet opening 16 and the outflow opening 12 are released for removing the earlier- mentioned seals.
  • the holder 2 can be placed in the apparatus 4.
  • the inlet opening 16 is fluid-tightly connected to the outlet opening 18.
  • the control device 34 provides for the fluid dispensing device 6 to be started for dispensing the first fluid under pressure, in this example hot water.
  • a jet is generated that spouts into the first mixing chamber 10.
  • the control device 34 also ensures that the needles 28a and 28b, respectively, are pierced through walls of the storage space 8a and 8b, and the third fluid is supplied to the second fluid in the storage spaces.
  • the fluid communication 14 is, once more, sealed off by a breakable skin 38a, while the fluid communication 14b is sealed off by a breakable skin 38b.
  • the result of the supply of the third fluid to the storage spaces is that both in the storage space 8a and in the storage space 8b, the pressure starts to increase.
  • the breakable skins 38a, 38b can be constructed in a manner such that first, the breakable skin 38a opens, for instance in that it is of thinner design.
  • the storage space 8a is filled with a coffee concentrate
  • coffee concentrate will be supplied to the first mixing chamber.
  • coffee is formed leaving the mixing chamber via the outflow opening 12.
  • the second breakable skin 38b that may be somewhat thicker than the first breakable skin 38a, will tear open. This means that only when at least virtually all coffee concentrate has been dispensed from the storage space 8a to the first mixing chamber, the fluid from the storage space 8b will be supplied in a dosed manner to the first mixing chamber.
  • the fluid at the storage space 8b can consist of, for instance, milk concentrate.
  • the through- flow opening 64a can be designed to be larger than the through-flow opening 64b.
  • the tearable skins 38a and 38b open at exactly the same pressure, and therefore, in that case, will open virtually simultaneously, upon supply of the third fluid, first, the pressure in the storage spaces 8a and 8b will increase to and equal extent.
  • the two tearable skins 38a and 38b break approximately simultaneously, via the through-flow opening 64a, coffee concentrate will be supplied from the storage space 8a to the first mixings chamber 10. Simultaneously, milk concentrate will be supplied from the storage space 8b to the first mixing chamber 10.
  • Both concentrates will mix with the jet of the hot water that is supplied by the fluid dispensing device 6 to the first mixing chamber 10.
  • a beverage is formed consisting of coffee with milk, and which is captured in a mug 40 when the beverage leaves the first mixing chamber 10 via the outflow opening 12.
  • the through-flow opening 64 in this example has a much larger surface than the through-flow opening 64b, the flow rate of the coffee concentrate that is supplied to the first mixing chamber will, initially, be greater than the flow rate of the milk concentrate that is supplied to the first mixing chamber 10.
  • the volume of the storage space 8a is approximately equal to the volume of the storage space 8b, the result is that the storage space 8a is empty first.
  • the through-flow opening 64a and the through-flow opening 64b have the same size. It may be so that, for instance, the volume of the storage space 8a is smaller than the volume of the storage space 8b. Here, it may furthermore be effected that the coffee concentrate in the storage space 8a is much stronger, i.e. has a higher concentration than milk concentrate in the storage space 8b. As the through- flow openings 64a, 64b are approximately equally large, initially, the flow rate of the coffee concentrate will be approximately equal to the flow rate of the milk concentrate. Here, it is assumed that both concentrates have the same viscosity. The result is that the storage space 8a will be empty sooner than the storage space 8b.
  • the volume of the storage space 8a and the storage space 8b are equal to each other.
  • the size of the through-flow openings 64a and 64b can be equal to each other.
  • the coffee concentrate is less viscous than the milk concentrate.
  • the flow rate of the coffee concentrate from the storage space 8a is greater than the flow rate of the milk concentrate from the storage space 8b.
  • both coffee concentrate and milk concentrate are supplied to the first mixing chamber 10, so that coffee is formed leaving the first mixing chamber via the outflow opening 12 and ending up in the container 40.
  • the storage space 8a When, some time later, the storage space 8a is virtually empty, this will not yet be the case for the storage space 8b with the milk concentrate.
  • Such variants are all understood to fall within the framework of the invention.
  • Figs. 5a and 5b On the basis of Figs. 5a and 5b, a fifth embodiment of a system according to the invention is discussed. Once more, the system according to Figs. 5a and 5b corresponds at least substantially to the system of Fig. 1. Here too, only the differences with the system according to Fig. 1 will be briefly elucidated.
  • the exchangeable holder is provided with a plurality, in this example two, of storage space 8a and 8b, separated from each other, which are each filled with a fluid.
  • the storage space 8a is, once more, filled with a coffee concentrate while the storage space 8b is filled with a milk concentrate.
  • the storage spaces 8a and 8b are each at least substantially identical to the storage space 8 as discussed on the basis of Fig. 1. Therefore, they are at least virtually completely separated storage spaces, while there is also no joint wall, as was the case with Fig.4.
  • the needle 82a is connected to a fluid dispensing unit 32a and the needle 28b is connected to a fluid dispensing unit 32b, while the fluid dispensing units 32a and 32b are each similar to the fluid dispensing unit 32 of Fig. 4a.
  • the storage space 8a terminates, via the fluid communication 14a, into the first mixing chamber 10. Via the fluid communication 14, the storage space 8b terminates into the first mixing chamber 10. It further holds that the fluid communication 14a is sealed off, once more, by a breakable skin 38a while the fluid communication 14b is sealed off by a breakable skin 38b. As can be seen in the drawing, the fluid communications 14a and 14b together terminate in a joint outflow opening 66. An underside of this outflow opening is shown in Fig. 5b. Instead of a breakable skin 38a and 38b, per fluid communication 14a, 14b, also, a breakable skin 38 could be provided for sealing off the joint outflow opening 66. This is, however, not the case in this example.
  • the fluid dispensing units 32a and 32b are designed for supplying third fluids in an independent manner into the storage space 8a and 8b.
  • the system is, in fact, provided with a dosing device which comprises a plurality of different, independent dosing devices for supplying, with these different dosing devices, in a dosed manner, second fluids from mutually different storage space 8a and 8b to the mixing chamber.
  • the third fluid that is supplied to the first storage space is not necessarily the same as the third fluid that is supplied to the second storage space, but this can be the case.
  • the concentrate can be supplied from the storage space 8a to the first mixing chamber and then, the concentrate can be supplied from the storage space 8b to the first mixing chamber.
  • the result is that for instance first, in the first mixing chamber, coffee is formed, and then milk.
  • the air inlet may further comprise the valve 50 mentioned.
  • the code reading unit 52 reads, for instance, the code when the inlet opening 16 and the outflow opening 18 are fluid-tightly interconnected.
  • This code 52 mentioned comprises information relating to the types of fluids with which the first storage space 8a and the second storage space 8b, respectively, are filled, in this example coffee concentrate and milk concentrate, respectively.
  • the control device 34 can determine this on the basis of the readout code. To this end, when for instance the button 36 is pushed in again, the control device will first supply the third fluid to the storage space 8a by means of the fluid dispensing unit 32a. As a result, first, coffee concentrate will be supplied from the storage space 8a to the mixing chamber 10. Simultaneously, the control device 34 can for instance effect that the air inlet valve 50 is closed.
  • the air inlet valve 50 When the air inlet valve 50 is closed and hot water is supplied under pressure to the restriction 20 with the aid of the fluid dispensing device 6 (simultaneously or just after the dosing of the coffee concentrate has started), a jet of water is generated with which no air is drawn along via the air inlet opening 42. The hot water will mix with the coffee extract, while, at least substantially, no air is whipped into the coffee. First, via the outflow opening 12, the coffee extract will be dispensed without this being provided with a fine bubble froth layer. When, after some time, the storage space 9a is at least virtually empty, the control device 34 will ensure that thereupon, the third fluid is supplied to the second storage space 8b. As a result, the second storage space 8b is slowly emptied.
  • the control device 34 can ensure that the air regulating valve 50 is opened.
  • air is drawn into the first mixing chamber.
  • milk with whipped-in air is formed. Therefore, this milk comprises a fine bubble froth layer.
  • the hot milk is supplied via the outflow opening 12 to the coffee extract, the frothed milk will float on the coffee extract so that, once more, a cappuccino is formed.
  • the fluid dispensing device can continue generating hot water when the storage space 8a is empty and, thereupon, the storage space 8b is emptied.
  • the fluid dispensing device can also be temporarily stopped when a switch has to be made from dispensing coffee concentrate to dispensing milk concentrate.
  • the system to be discussed hereinafter according to Fig. 7 largely corresponds to the system according to Fig. 1.
  • the differences between the system according to Fig. 1 and the system according to Fig. 7 will be further elucidated.
  • the system according to the invention can further be provided with a second mixing chamber 100 forming a fluid communication between the first mixing chamber 10 and the outflow opening 12.
  • the outflow opening 12 is located in a bottom 102 of the second mixing chamber 100.
  • the second mixing chamber 100 forms a part of the exchangeable holder 2.
  • the system is further provided with a restriction 20 which is included in the fluid flow path 21 that extends via the outlet opening 18, the inlet opening 16 and the first mixing chamber 10 (and, in this example, also via the second chamber 100) from the fluid dispensing device 6 to the outflow opening 12.
  • the restriction 20 is located in a fluid communication 104 between the first mixing chamber 10 and the second mixing chamber 100.
  • the restriction 20 is designed in a manner such that, in use, with the restriction, a jet of the beverage is generated which spouts into the second mixing chamber 100.
  • the system is provided with an air inlet opening 42 for supplying air to the beverage in the system.
  • the air supply opening 42 terminates, via the fluid communication 44 downstream of the restriction 20 and upstream of the second mixing chamber 100, into the fluid flow path 21 (n this example the fluid communication 104).
  • the control device 34 will ensure that the dosing device 24 starts dispensing the second fluid to the first mixing chamber 10. Simultaneously, or soon after, the control device 34 provides for the fluid dispensing device 6 to start dispensing the first fluid under pressure to the first mixing chamber. In the first mixing chamber, the first fluid and the second fluid will mix together so that the beverage is formed. The first mixing chamber 10 will be gradually filled with the beverage.
  • the pressure in the first mixing chamber will increase so that the beverage is pressed from the restriction 20 out of the first mixing chamber 10.
  • the result is that with the restriction 20, a jet of the beverage is formed which spouts into the second mixing chamber 100.
  • air will be drawn in via the air inlet opening 42. This air too flows to the second mixing chamber 100.
  • the jet will impact on the bottom 102 for whipping in air.
  • the beverage and the air will mix together so that air is whipped into the beverage.
  • the beverage with the whipped-in air then flows from the second mixing chamber 100 via the outflow opening 12 as the beverage with a fine-bubble froth layer.
  • a further jet impact element 106 can be included (shown in interrupted lines in Fig. 10) while the restriction 20 is positioned relative to the jet impact element such that in use, the jet impacts on the impact element for whipping air into the beverage as described with reference to Fig. 3.
  • the air inlet opening 42 can be closed or be omitted.
  • each of the embodiments according to Figs. 1 — 6 can be provided with a second mixing chamber 100 as discussed on the basis of Fig. 7.
  • the air inlet opening 42 can also positioned as shown in, for instance, Fig. 1, Then, air is drawn in and supplied to the first fluid. Via the first fluid, the air enters the first mixing chamber and will then mix with the beverage obtained there.
  • the jet formed with the restriction 20 will then also comprise air. After impact of the jet in the second mixing chamber, once more, a beverage with a fine bubble froth layer will be formed.
  • the second fluid can be dispensed under pressure to the first chamber.
  • the dosing device is an active dosing device which dispenses the second fluid by means of a pump.
  • the first fluid can consist of a gas such as steam.
  • the second fluid will often already contain a beverage to which the gas is added in the first mixing chamber 10, for instance for heating the beverage.
  • the gas can also comprise carbon dioxide (CO2) for obtaining a carbonated beverage.
  • the first fluid can comprise both a liquid and a gas.
  • the restriction can be omitted.
  • the first and/or second fluid must then be supplied to the first mixing chamber 10 at a sufficiently great flow velocity in order that the first and second fluid will mix together well.
  • the restriction can be designed such that a mist is generated with the restriction. With the variants according to Figs. 1 — 6, this entails that a mist of the first fluid is generated in the first chamber.
  • the restriction can be manufactured from rubber with a through-feed opening whose diameter can vary slightly when the first fluid is supplied, for atomizing the first fluid. The atomized first fluid and the second fluid mix together whereby the beverage with whipped-in air is obtained.
  • the beverage can then leave the first chamber with a fine-bubble froth layer. If the beverage comprises relatively large air bubbles, these can be stopped or broken by adjusting the size of the outflow opening. The large bubbles may for instance not pass the outflow opening so that a beverage with a fine-bubble froth layer is dispensed. With the variant according to Big. 7, this entails that a mist of the beverage is generated in the second chamber 100. As a result, air is whipped into the beverage. The beverage can then leave the second chamber with air whipped in. The beverage can then flow via the outflow opening from the holder with a fine-bubble froth layer as described hereinabove.
  • the first fluid is supplied to the first mixing chamber during at least a first period and the second fluid is supplied to the first mixing chamber during at least a second period.
  • the first and second period may start at the same time and end at the same time. It is also possible that the second period starts sooner than the first period. However, other variations are possible too.
  • the fluid dispensing device 6 can be designed to dispense, at wish, different types of first fluids, such as steam, water, CQz etc. Once more, the selection hereof can be controlled by the control unit 34 and will often coincide with the type of second fluid or second fluids in the exchangeable holder. Also, if desired, this choice can be set manually or be determined with the aid of the code reading unit 52.
  • the invention is not limited in any manner to the embodiments outlined hereinabove.
  • the storage spaces are located next to each other. It is also possible that the storage spaces lie one above the other as schematically shown in Figs. 6a and 6b.
  • the restriction and the air inlet opening belong to the holder, this in contrast to what is the case in Fig. 1.
  • the restriction and/or the air inlet can be fixedly connected to the apparatus.
  • the second fluids are for instance mixable and/or dissolvable in the first fluid.
  • the storage space mentioned were filled with coffee concentrate and/or milk concentrate.
  • a syrup or powder for preparing a lemonade can be involved.
  • the apparatus can also be further provided with additional storage spaces that may be filled with additives such as for instance soluble powders or concentrates. These powders too can be supplied to the first mixing chamber through urging with the aid of a third fluid, or by squeezing the respective storage space empty.
  • additives such as for instance soluble powders or concentrates.
  • These powders too can be supplied to the first mixing chamber through urging with the aid of a third fluid, or by squeezing the respective storage space empty.
  • flavour enhancers, sugars, cocoa and the like can be involved.
  • milk powder and/or milk creamer can be involved.
  • the second fluid can also a powder and the like, soluble in the first fluid or mixable with the first fluid, for instance soluble in a liquid such as water.
  • a second fluid in the storage space can comprise both a concentrate and a powder in mixed form or not in mixed form.
  • the temperature of the first fluid can vary.
  • the first fluid can also consist of water at room temperature or cold water.
  • the temperature of the first fluid that is supplied to the holder for preparing a beverage can vary over time.
  • the seals 38 can also comprise valves known per se that are operated by the apparatus for opening.
  • the closure 17 can also be designed differently than a removable seal.
  • the closure can be provided with a valve which can be manually operated or by the apparatus.
  • the closure can also be formed by a tearable skin that tears open under the influence of a mixture of fluid and liquid in the mixing chamber. In the above-mentioned examples, the needle was directly pierced into the wall of the respective storage space.
  • the needle is pierced into a wall of the holder at a position below which there is a space which is in fluid communication with the storage space. If the holder is provided with several storage spaces one needle can be pierced in the holder for supplying the third fluid to the second fluids in the several storage spaces. Then, the needle is pierced into a wall of the holder at a position under which there is a space which is in fluid communication with the storage spaces.
  • a needle is pierced into a wall of the holder. This may be in a wall of the respective storage spaces themselves, or in a wall of the holder at positions below which there are several spaces which, respectively, are in fluid communication with the different storage spaces.
  • the needle was pierced in the holder through activation of the dosing device by pushing the button.
  • the needle is manually pierced into the holder.
  • the needle may be attached to a lid of the apparatus. Then, the apparatus is provided with a receiving space for the holder, which can be closed off by the lid. By closing the receiving space with the lid, the (at least one) needle can be pierced into the holder.
  • the volume of a storage space can vary from, for instance, 5 to 150 millilitres, more specifically from 6 to 50 millilitres.
  • a passage opening of the restriction can vary from, for instance, 0.4 to 1.5 mm, more particularly from 0.6 to 1.3 mm, still more particularly from 0.7 to 0.9 mm.
  • the pressure at which, in use, the liquid dispensing device dispenses the first fluid can vary from 0.6 to 12 bars, more particularly from 0.7 to 2 bar and preferably from 0.9 to 1.5 bars.
  • the period during which, for the preparation of the beverage, the first fluid is supplied to the first mixing chamber can vary from 2 to 90 seconds, more particularly from 10 to 50 seconds.
  • the size of the air inlet opening can vary, if this is completely opened, from, for instance, 0.005 to 0.5 mm 2 .

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Food Science & Technology (AREA)
  • Devices For Dispensing Beverages (AREA)
  • Apparatus For Making Beverages (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un système de préparation d'une quantité définie de boisson apte à la consommation, ce système comportant un support amovible et un appareil doté d'un dispositif de distribution de liquide relié de manière mobile au support pour fournir au moins une quantité d'au moins un premier liquide sous pression, tel que de l'eau, au support amovible. Le support amovible comprend au moins un espace de stockage rempli d'un deuxième liquide tel qu'un concentré.
PCT/NL2007/050164 2006-04-19 2007-04-19 Système de préparation d'une boisson apte à la consommation, et support amovible pour un système de ce type WO2007120047A2 (fr)

Priority Applications (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
BRPI0710621-1A BRPI0710621A2 (pt) 2006-04-19 2007-04-19 sistema e método para preparar uma quantidade predeterminada de bebida apropriada para consumo, suporte intercambiável projetado para ser conectado a um aparelho provido com um dispositivo de dispensação de fluido e aparelho
EP07747388A EP2012628A2 (fr) 2006-04-19 2007-04-19 Système de préparation d'une boisson apte à la consommation, et support amovible pour un système de ce type
US12/297,629 US20110305807A1 (en) 2006-04-19 2007-04-19 System for preparing a beverage suitable for consumption, and exchangeable holder for such system

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NL1031622 2006-04-19
NL1031622A NL1031622C2 (nl) 2006-04-19 2006-04-19 Systeem voor het bereiden van een voor consumptie geschikte drank, alsmede verwisselbare houder voor een dergelijk systeem.

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WO2007120047A2 true WO2007120047A2 (fr) 2007-10-25
WO2007120047A3 WO2007120047A3 (fr) 2008-01-24

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US (1) US20110305807A1 (fr)
EP (1) EP2012628A2 (fr)
BR (1) BRPI0710621A2 (fr)
NL (1) NL1031622C2 (fr)
WO (1) WO2007120047A2 (fr)

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EP2222593A2 (fr) * 2007-11-16 2010-09-01 ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc. Système de gestion d'air pour boisson
US8225710B2 (en) 2006-04-19 2012-07-24 Koninklijke Douwe Egberts B.V. Beverage preparation system, holder and apparatus
US8312806B2 (en) 2006-04-19 2012-11-20 Koninklijke Douwe Egberts B.V. System for preparing a beverage suitable for consumption, and exchangeable holder for such system
US20140287117A1 (en) * 2007-11-09 2014-09-25 Kraft Foods R& D, Inc. Beverage Cartridge
US9161655B2 (en) 2006-04-19 2015-10-20 Koninklijke Douwe Egbert B.V. System for preparing a beverage suitable for consumption, and exchangeable holder for such system and method for manufacturing the exchangeable holder
WO2017105230A1 (fr) * 2015-12-15 2017-06-22 Koninklijke Douwe Egberts B.V. Vanne directionnelle et système de boisson la comprenant
WO2017144477A1 (fr) * 2016-02-25 2017-08-31 Kuantom Appareil de fabrication d'une boisson
US9783361B2 (en) 2013-03-14 2017-10-10 Starbucks Corporation Stretchable beverage cartridges and methods
US9877495B2 (en) 2015-01-09 2018-01-30 Starbucks Corporation Method of making a sweetened soluble beverage product
US10442610B2 (en) 2014-03-11 2019-10-15 Starbucks Corporation Pod-based restrictors and methods
US11524268B2 (en) 2016-11-09 2022-12-13 Pepsico, Inc. Carbonated beverage makers, methods, and systems

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BRPI0710621A2 (pt) 2011-08-16
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NL1031622C2 (nl) 2007-10-22
US20110305807A1 (en) 2011-12-15

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